Ráquira -- Souvenirs Galore

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So, you want to get some GREAT SOUVENIRS. Where do you go? Yes, there is an artesan market in Bogotá, but if you want to see endless selection of ceramics, hand made pots and statues, handmade hammocks, ruanas, art, etc. You need to go to Ráquira.

Ráquira is the Chibcha name meaning "City of Pots", and that is exactly what it is. Originally, an area of a small Chibcha population governed by the Cacique Suaya and under the authority of the Zaque of Hunza (Tunja), the conquistadors passed through the village on their way to Bogotá in 1537. The city of Raquirá was 'founded' in 1580 by Fray Francisco de Orjuela, on October 18. The Natives of the area were then taught Catholicism by Augustine Monks who founded the first Augustine Monestary in the Americas in 1607 just outside of Ráquira.

Ráquira is an amazing place to spend a couple of hours. It is about 20-30 minutes from Villa de Leyva. Make sure to bring your wallet and be prepared to make some amazing finds in this little town that was named the most beautiful pueblo of Boyacá in 1994. When you are finished shopping, head back to Bogotá on Sunday night -- about a 4 hour drive.

All Raquira Photos by:

Comments

Maksym Shevchenko said…
Das ist gut! Danke schön für Ihren blog! Ich habe viel interessant über Kolumbien erkannt
November 5, 2009 at 4:58 PM
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